Hackathon showcases immense potential of students for the 8th year

Tshwane University hosted its eight annual Hackathon this week. The plot of the Tshwane Varsity Hackathon 2026 (TVH 2026) event is simple: 10 groups of students representing various universities in the Tshwane province presented their solutions to real world challenges in seven minutes on stage in front of an audience of supporters.

It was a thrilling event that drew in a large crowd of eager Tshwane University Students with the aim of learning about new Technology, Software and Artificial Intelligence for the use of everyday human problems.

The Hackathon (TCH 2026) is a challenge or a competition for Tshwane University students specializing in Information Communication and Technology, Graphic Design, Marketing and other subjects, including entrepreneurship courses.

Hackathon helping to solve issues

TVH 2026 included student hackers who participated in groups as collectives that participated in bringing up their idea models in reality of solving business economies and entrepreneurial matters.

Each team presented to the adjudicators with an idea faced at business challenges or municipal issues. Looked at solving and helping those with complaints to get the relevant assistance for their problems, for instance such as assigning technicians to business or providing various options on how to grow a business through Artificial Intelligence.

An event attendee, Michael Sibande said that the event was all about new learning systems, Artificial Intelligence and the ideas around solving complex human issues and coming up with solutions. The event was a three-day ceremony hosted at the Tshwane University of Technology, Ga-Rankuwa Campus where the event was hosted and partnered with MTN Telecommunications, Think Tank, the City of Tshwane Municipality as well as many other sponsors.

An eventful joyous Hackathon

The event was filled with entertaining moments of singing and dancing. Gifts were given to singing and dancing participants and winners. The students that participated were from the Tshwane University of Technology, University of South Africa and the University of Pretoria. The Hackathon was hosted at the new hall of the Tshwane University of Technology, Ga-Rankuwa Campus.

Michael Moeti said that the reason why the Tshwane University of Technology, Ga-Rankuwa Campus was the chosen location for the event, it was that it is a kasi location and best represented the theme of the event.

The Mayor’s input

The Executive Mayor of Tshwane, Dr Nasiphi Moya was also available on the 22 September and gave a keynote address to say, it was relevant for students to avail themselves as they could have been anywhere, but they chose to be determined and focused on their telecommunication career and presenting their business models which can help the societies in need of the strategies, talents and ideas to succeed and grow in getting more customers or producing profit.

A grand finale to announce the winners of Hackathon 2026

At the end of the Hackathon event it was evident from the participation: The students demonstrated incredible potential to use innovation and technology in such ways that they can make meaningful contributions to society once they graduate. The top five teams announced were: Group 15, Group 5, Group 4, Group 11, and Group 1. The Tshwane University said: “The journey is not over yet. These five teams will have another opportunity to present their solutions at the upcoming Awards Ceremony, where the Top 3 teams and the ultimate TVH 2026 winner will be announced.”

Images Credit: Tshwane University of Technology Facebook Page

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